In a lighthearted moment during Day 1 of the first Test at Headingley, England skipper Ben Stokes couldn’t help but laugh after Rishabh Pant greeted him with a bold and brilliant boundary. The Indian wicketkeeper-batter, who walked in after Yashasvi Jaiswal’s dazzling knock came to an end, made his presence felt immediately with his signature flair.
Pant arrived at the crease in the 53rd over and wasted no time announcing his intent. On just his second delivery, he charged down the pitch to Stokes and hammered a length ball straight over the bowler’s head for a stunning four. The audacious stroke left Stokes visibly amused. He burst into laughter and strolled toward Pant for a cheeky exchange, though the Indian batter, focused on the game, didn’t engage much.
ALSO READ: India Awarded 5 Penalty Runs After Helmet Mishap Stuns Ben Stokes at Headingley
Just a few overs later, the two were at it again — this time with the banter roles reversed. In the 57th over, Ben Stokes bowled a slower, low full toss that almost caught Pant off guard. The delivery dipped late, forcing Pant to improvise mid-shot. He managed to keep it out and scampered for a quick single.
𝙍𝙄𝙎𝙃𝘼𝘽𝙃 𝙋𝘼𝙉𝙏 𝙄𝙎 𝙄𝙉 𝙏𝙃𝙀 𝙈𝙄𝘿𝘿𝙇𝙀! 😎
That’s it, that’s the caption! 🤣😅
Watch now 👉 https://t.co/PXeXAKeYoj #ENGvIND | 1st Test | LIVE NOW on JioHotstar pic.twitter.com/S16apONf41
— Star Sports (@StarSportsIndia) June 20, 2025
— Drizzyat12Kennyat8 (@45kennyat7PM) June 20, 2025
Ben Stokes, who thought he had pulled off a clever trick, looked visibly frustrated at the missed opportunity, while Pant flashed a knowing smile. The two shared a laugh, showing the mutual respect and camaraderie that exists despite the competitive setting.
ALSO READ: Cheteshwar Pujara Playfully Embarrasses Michael Vaughan with Framed Tweet Before England Test
These exchanges added a lively flavor to an already engaging day of Test cricket, highlighting not just the skill on display but the fun and sportsmanship that make the game truly special.
